Launch of Lithics by Treasury This Saturday!

Treasury, a local vintage and clothing accessory boutique, is debuting their custom line of metal rings on Saturday. Titled “Lithics,” the line is produced by Treasury from vintage casts. Join them from 1 to 4pm for a celebration of the new line featuring music from DJ’s Kim and Sara (Kicks!, Black Cat). And read below for a special interview with Treasury’s Katerina Herodotou.

Why did you decide to make a custom line of rings?

We are always inspired by the vintage treasures we find on our hunts – the clothing, accessories, and jewelry, down the the tiniest little baubles that we can’t help but save and make into some version of updated jewelry. We are known to spend hours digging through dirty boxes of ancient finds at antique shows. One day we came across these rings and saw the possibility and how perfectly they would fit into our boutique’s aesthetic. We love to experiment!

I hear the rings are made from vintage casts. Where did you find the original vintage sources of inspiration?

We picked up the casts on a buying trip from a jewelry buyer who was going to melt them down for the raw metal. After seeing the intricate designs we couldn’t bear to think of them being lost forever.

Can you describe the creation process of the rings?

We worked with a jeweler/consultant to get in contact with the right people in the jewelry district in NYC and to brainstorm the different materials and finishes for the collection. The casts were first modified to include a space for a silver stamp and a Treasury stamp. Then they are used to make intricate wax molds so that they can be reproduced. We are using sterling silver and pink silver (an amalgam of silver and brass that produces a rosy pink alloy), as well as gold-plating for the rings. After they are cast from the molds, they have to be modified into different ring sizings, any excess metal has to be sanded down and the stamps are added. The last steps are the finishes: we are oxidizing some, shining some, and using vermeil on others.

Are there any plans for Treasury to help produce more jewelry in the future?

Yes! We have lots of things brewing in minds for more jewelry.

Are you interested in featuring other custom-made jewelry or clothing from local makers? If so, how can they get in touch with you?

We do already carry a couple jewelry lines from independent designers and would love to find more. Our contact information is our our website: www.shoptreasury.com

Treasury’s Launch of Lithics

Saturday, January 30
1 to 4 pm
1843 14th St. NW (second floor)
Washington, DC 20009